Costa: the best ports of call for a successful Mediterranean cruise

Sailing the Mediterranean with Costa Croisières is above all a controlled adventure. On board, everything is designed to ensure that every passenger enjoys his or her trip with peace of mind: top-quality catering, varied entertainment, comfortable cabins… But it’s during your stopovers that the magic really happens.

3 countries, 5 mythical ports of call

This cruise offers five mythical stages, between sumptuous landscapes and rich history. The program includes Istanbul, Mykonos, Heraklion, Rhodes and Santorini. The excursions on offer are varied and designed to suit all traveler profiles. You can explore archaeological sites, embark on a catamaran trip, stroll the shopping streets, taste local specialties or go hiking. In a group, on a private tour, with or without a guide, all options are possible… Let’s go!

Istanbul, between East and West

First stop: Istanbul, Turkey’s cultural capital, where minarets and skyscrapers mingle. It’s impossible not to be captivated by the unique atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, the scent of spices, the gigantism of the Blue Mosque or the majestic silhouette of Sainte-Sophie. A stroll along the banks of the Bosphorus or a stroll in the Galata district offers an intense, almost carnal first contact with this thousand-year-old city. For a more complete overview of this stopover, read our article dedicated to Istanbul with Costa.

Mykonos, between beaches and white houses

Next, Mykonos, the iconic Greek island. Known for its golden beaches and windmills, it offers an ideal summer break. But Mykonos is also known for the intimacy of its cobbled streets, cats sleeping in the shade and seaside tavernas. An excursion with Costa is short but intense, a moment suspended between blue sky and turquoise sea. For a more complete overview of this stopover, read our article dedicated to Mykonos with Costa.

Crete, between mythology and dream beaches

Third stop: Crete, and more specifically Rethymnon. The island of ancient legends is captivating for the diversity of its landscapes and the warmth of its people. An excursion with Costa allows you to visit traditional villages, perched monasteries and admire the remains of ancient civilizations. It’s a real pleasure to explore, between nature and culture. For a more complete overview of this stopover, read our article dedicated to Crete with Costa.

Rhodes, between fortress and ancient ruins

Then on to Rhodes, an island with a rich past. The fortified old town is a jewel on the World Heritage List. Between the ramparts and the port, you can make out the footsteps of the knights of the Order of St. John. Costa’s tour offers an immersive experience, with an accessible yet comprehensive guided tour. The feeling ofadventure is there, reinforced by the beauty of the cobbled streets and the panoramic view from the Acropolis of Lindos. For a more complete overview of this stopover, read our article dedicated to Rhodes with Costa.

Santorini, the living postcard

Last stop: Santorini, arguably Greece’s most iconic image. Its white houses, perched atop volcanic cliffs, contrast with the deep blue of the Aegean Sea. It’s a short stopover, but a memorable one. The feeling of escape is total, especially at sunset in Oia, where it’s easy to see why so many travelers fall in love with this place.For a more complete overview of this stopover, read our article dedicated to Santorini with Costa.

Our verdict: a Mediterranean cruise is always a good idea. It’s a plunge into world history and mythology, a journey through cultures and flavors, in this basin that has seen the birth of the greatest civilizations. With Costa, the journey becomes fluid, accessible and deeply memorable. The best times to cruise the Mediterranean are May, June and September.
Find out more about all Costa cruise destinations HERE